Obituary of Helen Pihursky (nee Ciotka)

Pihursky, Helen Dorothy (nee Ciotka) - Passed away peacefully on Thursday June 8, 2017 at Meadows of Dorchester in Niagara Falls, at the age 90, surrounded by family. Predeceased by her loving husband Ilarij 'Larry' of 58 years and her siblings Sandy Ciotka, Harry Ciotka, Alexis Ciotka and Anna Ross. Devoted mother of Anna Kanerva and Slawko 'Jerry' Pihursky (Marian). Cherished Baba to Kristine Kanerva-Giles (Craig), Jason Kanerva (Karen), Kylene Kanerva (Piotrek), Madonna and Taras. Beloved Great Baba to Justine, Braeden, Calum, Lochlain, Brady and Tiara. Will be fondly remembered by her sisters Marion Glasko, Nadia Tkaczuk and Sandra Park. A special thank you to Tamara and other loving family members for the unconditional love and physical support. Helen worked as a nurse for over 35 years at the Sudbury General Hospital in the pediatric and medical units. She was a member of both the Ukrainian Greek Orthodox Church of St. Volodymyr (Sudbury) and St. George's Ukrainian Orthodox Church (St. Catharines), a member of the Ukrainian National Federation and past president and member of St. Olga's Ladies Auxiliary in Sudbury. Her love for Ukrainian heritage and culture was revered in the Sudbury community where she gave much of her time and talents. Helen was very well known for her extraordinary Ukrainian culinary dishes - cabbage rolls, pyrohy, wedding breads , etc. The family wishes to extend their deep gratitude for the love and compassion provided by the staff at Meadows of Dorchester.

Public gathering will be held on Monday, June 12th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m at the George Darte Funeral Home, 585 Carlton Street, St. Catharines L2M 4Y1. Panachyda will be said on Monday at 7 p.m. Funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Tuesday, June 13th at 9 a.m. with burial to follow at Victoria Lawn Cemetery, 432 Queenston St, St. Catharines L2R 7K6.